Pobjoy Mint has released the new Preserve the Planet Earth Coin on behalf of the Government of Niue. Since September, 2019 the wildfires in Australia have burned over 27 million acres, one of the worst fire seasons on record. The fires have killed at least 29 people and destroyed over 2,500 homes. An estimated 1.25 billion animals have also perished, including over 8,000 koalas. It is obvious they are in need of external support.
The devastating effects the fires in Australia are having on the people, their homes, the wildlife and the landscape have been seen all over the globe. The special coin has therefore been issued to help raise much needed funds the Australian nation recover the destruction these fires have caused and also to raise awareness of climate change issues.
The coin itself features a map of Australia carrying the Australian national flag with a Koala superimposed over the country. It is clear from recent news coverage that this Australian marsupial has been deeply affected by recent events. The inscription on the coin – Preserve Planet Earth – emphasises the belief that climate change is the main cause of this devastation. 15% of the total profit of all coins will be donated to the NSW wildlife Information, Rescue and Education services (WIRES) which is Australia’s largest wildlife rescue organisation.
The Cupro Nickel coin will come in a specially designed pack including the certificate of authenticity on the back of the pack. The 1oz Silver version will come presented in a beautiful red box with a separate special certificate. Information and images of the 2oz Fine silver coin can be provided upon request.
For further information, visit the website of the British Pobjoy Mint.
This is the website of WIRES.
Read this BBC article to get an idea about how fire hotspots have developed and moved over the last months.
To browse satellite observed fire hotspots updated every 2 to 4 hours go to My Fire Watch.
